Arts cooperative

The late Dr. Jean Chapman was a key member of this community. In addition to being respected professionally for his medical expertise, Chapman was integral to the advancement of local arts, having served on the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri board from 1998 to 2004.

In 2003, Chapman helped start the Visual Arts Cooperative. He was also an advocate for First Fridays with the Arts. Now the First Fridays event regularly draws more than 750 people, and the cooperative has been an avenue for local artists to show their work to the public.

The arts council recently held its 10th annual Visual Arts Cooperative's three-gallery show. If you missed the show, or simply want to see it again, the exhibit is on display through April 28 in the Jean Chapman and Lorimier Galleries, and Gallery 100 at the arts council.

There are a number of talented artists in this community. Thanks to Chapman's leadership and vision, along with the work of many others, local artists have a place to show their work where the community can enjoy it.

We hope you take some time in the next week to check out the galleries. The arts council's gallery is at 32 N. Main St. and is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.